Zakia graduated from the University of Bristol Dental School in 2001, spending her first two years as a dentist working in Scarborough. She went on to gain membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery (MFDS) with the Royal College of Surgeons of England in 2005. Over the years, Zakia's been involved with teaching and supervision of dental undergraduates and first-year qualified dentists.

Zakia subsequently secured a place as a senior house officer in acute dental care at Leeds Dental Institute. She joined the Practice here at Malin Bridge in 2004. In 2012, she gained a certificate in clinical education. Zakia works at the Practice on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.